The Birth of Independent Uruguay during the Brazil-Argentina Conflict

Abstract

The independence movements of Latin America lasted for a century, with sovereign states emerging in quick succession until 1898. Most of the Latin American countries declared war on the Spanish Monarchy to establish their autonomous governments. The case of Uruguayan independence differed from this process, as it was complicated by the rivalry between Argentina and Brazil. Both countries were dominant in the region and sought to occupy the valuable territory of Uruguay, leading to the Cisplatine War between 1825 and 1828. Uruguayan citizens had to fight against Spanish colonization and the impending
occupation of two dominant neighbors concurrently. The diversity of the peoples populating Uruguay manifested in different interests, leading to the formation of various „political” groups. Some advocated for joining Argentina or Brazil, while others preferred Spanish dominance, or fought for freedom. Uruguay achieved independence on August 28, 1828, with the conclusion of the Cisplatine War, when both Brazil and Argentina accepted the independence of the country.